66 Nebraskaland • June 2020
During these uncertain times with social distancing,
we're inviting you to look no farther than your own home or
backyard for your next campout experience. The "getaway"
that everyone craves is only a few feet from your front door.
The excitement of sleeping outdoors is fascinating for people
at any age: not just kids. So, get to packing for your next big
adventure right in your own backyard.
So where do you start? Pre-planning for your backyard
adventure as a family gets everyone involved and promotes
anticipation. Treat your backyard like an honest-to-goodness
campsite. Take your tent outside and fi nd the perfect location
for the night. Don't have a tent? Then use supplies that you
have on hand such as a tarp, rope, big sticks or a clothesline
between two trees with a blanket or sheet on top. It doesn't
have to be perfect – just make it fun.
One of the best parts about camping is eating around the fi re. If
you have a fi re pit, it's easy to roast hot dogs, toast marshmallows
and even make tinfoil packet dinners. Or, if you don't have a fi re
pit, try a small charcoal grill. Of course, you don't need a campfi re
to eat like a camper – pack some sandwiches, trail mix, juice
boxes and desserts in a cooler instead.
Once dinner is over, remember to keep yourself entertained
with games during the day or into the night. Do a scavenger
hunt or play classic games like Simon says or tag – activities
that don't require extra packing are always a plus. If none of
these suggestions sound interesting, then invent your own
games with items you have around the house. Encourage
creativity and family fun competitions.
Don't be discouraged if you don't have a yard. Many of
these same experiences can be created on a porch, driveway
or even in a living room. S'mores in the microwave are still
just as good. Single tents or homemade forts fi t well in
small spaces. What will your campsite look like? Make the
adventure your own.
Remember to take a few photos and share them on social
media with the hashtag #CampAtHomeNE. Those who send
Nebraska Game and Parks a direct message on Facebook or
Instagram with their camp-at-home photo, their name and
address will be automatically entered into a drawing for
prizes. Learn more at OutdoorNebraska.org/campathomene.
BACKYARD CAMPING
By Monica Macoubrie
PHOTO
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
MIXED BAG
